Publisher's Summary

"I just want to be happy," a simple goal expressed as though it were the very least we could expect of life. Some phrase it differently, and some attach requirement or specifics to the statement by pre-deciding how happiness must be packaged. Nonetheless it sounds so reasonable an expectation and yet for some reason so many people spend an entire lifetime unable to reach or even discover the first step on the path to this universal desire. Many believe that this illusive state would be possible if they could only win the lottery, inherit great wealth or even perhaps meet the man or woman of their dreams. Essential we all make the same mistake, the assumption that happiness is out there somewhere for us to stumble upon. Happiness is incorrectly seen as a destination that once reached dissolves the suffering and worry of life into the ether forever more.

Happiness is indeed a simple request but most assume it is hidden and only the very few are fortunate enough to discover the treasure map that leads to its secret location. Swallow The Happy Pill will show you that you not already own the map but you are currently standing right on top of the big red X that marks the spot of that buried treasure you crave so much. Discover:

How to manifest your dreams

The secrets to perfect self-esteem and confidence

Stop anxiety and depression before it starts

The quite route to freedom and peace of mind

How to get every prayer answered every time

The amazing secrets revealed in Swallow The Happy Pill will change how you think about everything; it will shatter your beliefs and dramatically transform your life. This may be one of the most significant books you ever buy.

I consider myself to be a happy person. In fact, I would say I'm perhaps the happiest person I know. And the reason is, without knowing it, I follow many of the ideas in this book. So, as a reader, and a happy person, I have to give it my endorsement.

(An aside: I do not agree with the author on everything. His quasi-deist ideology is a little thin and fuzzy for my liking. I would have preferred a theological argument of a little more weight and depth. But I will say this: the reviewer who said that this book contains atheistic ideas is utterly wrong. Beck does (spoiler alert) believe in some kind of god or higher power. Atheism is the belief that no such power exists. Apparently the reviewer has a rather narrow view of what atheism actually is. To her, it appears that any world view that is not christianity is atheism. Not so.)

I read this book after reading one of Beck's books on alcohol (see my profile and past reviews for info on that book). It helped me greatly. Some of the material in this book is lifted from the book on alcohol, but it only represents around 20% of the total content. Overall, the rest of the content has value and is worth listening to. But this duplication of effort did contribute to a loss of a fifth star in my review.

One other reason for four stars instead of five: I was hoping that this book contained some hypnotherapy and relaxation tracks as the book on alcohol does. It does not, but I feel the reader could really benefit from such tracks in an effort to reshape the subconscious and quell the ego with the goal in mind of overcoming the limitations of the conscious mind. At the very least these audio meditations could have been very enjoyable and affirming. I felt a slight bit cheated out of that opportunity.

In short, Beck is onto something here. Anyone who wishes to be truly happy can take a step closer to that goal by listening to the book. This will likely not be the last Craig Beck audio book I purchase.

16 of 16 people found this review helpful

Amazon Customer

Folsom, CA, United States

17/11/11

Overall

Performance

Story

"Experience many Aha moments"

I have listened to this book twice or more during the week. It is real, applicable to life as it is now, and relevant to people in every stage of life. From all of the self-help audiobooks I have purchased this is by far my favorite. Truly a pleasurable listen.

11 of 11 people found this review helpful

Kevin

Stavanger, Norway

9/10/12

Overall

Performance

Story

"Greatest audiobook i've read so far."

What did you love best about Swallow The Happy Pill?

It was packed with aha-moments, delivered in an enetertaining manner.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Swallow The Happy Pill?

There were too many for me to single out one. In genereal Craig's view on how the mind works will make you start questioning some of your old beliefs, and realize you may have suffered alot of depression and negative emotions that were completely unnessecary.

What did you learn from Swallow The Happy Pill that you would use in your daily life?

It has made me be much more aware of the fact happiness and peace of mind is not something you can find externally, but rather internally. The fact that all happiness you can imagine is available to you right here right now. That being said, listening to this book wont make you a happy person overnight, but rather it can start a process of being more aware, and in turn shifting some of your old belief systems which are the root of whatever you may be suffering from.

Any additional comments?

If you somehow got to a point in your life where you are considering buying this book, you definitely should get it. You will be happy you did.

6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Susan

Topanga, CA, United States

31/01/12

Overall

Performance

Story

"A Great Pill to Swallow."

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

As soon as this audio was over I wanted to go out and buy it for so many of the close people in my life. It is a great introduction to understanding the inner workings of our mind verses our spirit.

What other book might you compare Swallow The Happy Pill to and why?

I imagine you could compare it to several self help books but why. This little book is a gem on it's own. As a reader of many self help books this little book made clear what most have failed to do. Craig Beck simplifies and makes tangible what others usually simply make reference to. This little pill is practical and easly swallowed.

Have you listened to any of Craig Beck’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

This is the first book of his that I have encountered but as soon as I finish this review I am purchasing Subattractions.

What’s an idea from the book that you will remember?

That our ego likes to fool us into believing that it's perception of the world is true. When in fact it is all illusion. To truly see the world as it is we must try and stay present to the moments as they evolve before us with out the ego's judgments.

Any additional comments?

No matter how many books you have read or how much you think you may already know take a moment to

5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Regina

LEXINGTON PARK, MD, United States

9/01/12

Overall

Performance

Story

"Very Enlightening and Brilliant Author/Narrator"

Would you listen to Swallow The Happy Pill again? Why?

I've listened to Swallow the Happy Pill several times. Still listening to it in between other audio books by Craig Beck. And when I do listen to it over again, there seems to be something new I pick up that I didn't hear the first time. Or the content will have new meaning as I evolve towards enlightenment through this audio book and other resources with a similar nature of peace within our subconscious. Excellent bool.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Swallow The Happy Pill?

Identifying that Happiness arises with less of the material things and more within yourself.

What about Craig Beck’s performance did you like?

I just love his voice. I listen to his audio books before bed and he occurs for me as strong, well educated, and speaking to principals of how our brains work that are materializing on a global scale. I definitely want to be on board this train.

Any additional comments?

If you are hesitant about buying any of Craig Beck's books or audiotapes, just do it. You will gain insight that will allow for Happiness to shine through on multiple levels.

5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Marc

st jean sur richelieu, QC, Canada

13/12/11

Overall

Performance

Story

"excellent work"

I think his story makes alot of sense. I purchased this one after the God enigma which I really enjoyed.

5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Scott

Australia

27/01/13

Overall

Performance

Story

"I like Craig but this is pretty dull stuff"

What would have made Swallow The Happy Pill better?

Not so much repetition from other books Craig has written. He repeats so many anecdotes or examples to back up his commentary and you know what he's going to say, word for word, before he says it. This gets very annoying.

Would you ever listen to anything by Craig Beck again?

Yes, because I like Craig, but I would need to be a bit more discerning about choosing my titles. I have read a lot of his stuff, but the repetition gets too much.

How could the performance have been better?

Use new material.

What reaction did this book spark in you? Anger, sadness, disappointment?

Disappointment. This one just isn't very interesting.

Any additional comments?

Craig has a good voice to listen to, unlike a lot of other audible narrators or authors doing their own material. Just going over old ground gets very old.

4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Dylan

Empangeni, South Africa

11/09/12

Overall

Performance

Story

"More than I expected"

Where does Swallow The Happy Pill rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

One of my favourites of about 100

What did you like best about this story?

Listened to a few similar E-Books, and don't mind that they often say the same things in different ways. This one truly had a unique take on things. Valuable.

What’s an idea from the book that you will remember?

Happiness doesn't come from the addition of new things, but from the removal of things. Eg the removal of worry, insecurity, unmet expectations etc.

Any additional comments?

Go on. Give it a listen!

4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Rob

Fayetteville, NC, United States

22/04/12

Overall

Performance

Story

"A thought-provoking approach to abstract topics"

If you could sum up Swallow The Happy Pill in three words, what would they be?

"Happiness is a choice" (author's words). I "tend to agree" (my words).

What did you like best about this story?

That my happiness should not be dependent upon group conformance or other people's expectations. That's not an excuse to be callous or withdrawn, but rather to realize that my own emotional well-being cannot be tied to the acceptance of me by other people.

What aspect of Craig Beck’s performance would you have changed?

I have two other titles from Craig Beck and there is some obvious duplication. Repetitive concepts are OK, but using the same illustrative analogies can be tedious for the listener. Since the author has to provide context, I skip through the spots that I've heard before. That's my reason for a three star rating on performance. As a narrator, Craig Beck is very enjoyable to listen to, has a fast pace, and the British accent is a nice touch.

What did you learn from Swallow The Happy Pill that you would use in your daily life?

Happiness comes from the inside, and the quest for status, money, or other forms of recognition are only temporary forms of pleasure or satisfaction. I need to be happy now, and not wait for some condition or other external dependency. It's all about perspective.

Any additional comments?

There are a couple of reviewers that were somewhat offended because the author tends to question religious dogma. This is true, but it's not limited to a single religion and he spends as much time examining atheism as with Christianity. But if you have a very strong personal belief system, and cannot get past some reasonably objective criticism (of all faiths) then you would probably be happier with a different selection.

4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Jason

TX, United States

5/01/13

Overall

Performance

Story

"A triumphant message of common sense and goodness"

Would you consider the audio edition of Swallow The Happy Pill to be better than the print version?

N/A

Who was your favorite character and why?

N/A

Have you listened to any of Craig Beck’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes. This is fantastic... it far exceeds my expectations in presenting logical and optimistic facts on the elusive topic of happiness.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes. It's hard to walk away from, and short enough to listen to in one sitting.

Any additional comments?

Incredible presentation. Very well done.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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Mahendra

Ilford, United Kingdom

3/04/13

Overall

"Great insight into being Happy"

A really good 'listen'. I was just curious to find out about 'being happy'. This audio book explains what true happiness is and how to go about being happy. Happiness is available to all and this book highlights where it is and how to be happy - by 'swallowing the Happy Pill'.

MP - London

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

paula

6/07/15

Overall

Performance

Story

"Brilliant Book"

Where does Swallow The Happy Pill rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

One of my favourites

What did you like best about this story?

Total honesty and sense.

Any additional comments?

Brilliant book. I didn't want it to end. Loved the narrators voice. Clear and easily understood. I will listen to the again and again.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

sfergusson1

2/06/15

Overall

Performance

Story

"Very good"

Full of good positive stuff. A slight religious slant but if you don't step out of your comfort zone you may not find what it is you are looking for.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Amazon Customer

3/11/14

Overall

Performance

Story

"Excellant Book"

If you could sum up Swallow The Happy Pill in three words, what would they be?

Easy to follow

What was one of the most memorable moments of Swallow The Happy Pill?

Finishing the book and feeling inspired

Have you listened to any of Craig Beck’s other performances? How does this one compare?

As good as

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No too long. Good for in car listening though

Any additional comments?

Great listen

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Silverdolphin23

LONDON, United Kingdom

19/05/13

Overall

Performance

Story

"the author shows us certainly a Way to happiness.."

the author strips away many of the preconceptions which society has brainwashed us with as to the material things we need in order to be happy...... I found that by allowing Mr. Beck to guide me on this subject my mind is a lot clearer, less troubled than before....... his message is not unlike that of the Buddha to some degree..... with a tinge of Stuart Wilde and The Secret...... but to compare him and his work to these sources do not do him a real justice...... his work is definitely part of my journey........ not necessarily the Final Place of Questing but still good material nevertheless.......

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

john

London, United Kingdom

25/09/12

Overall

"Nail on the head........................"

Great audio book and well narrated - this is worth every penny and says it all!

Craig once once again steps up to bat and hits the ball out of the stadium! Much this I already knew BUT the pieces of the jigsaw I did not were contained here in a simple manner and worth their weight in gold! I loved this book and rate it 5 stars - well done Craig!

3 of 4 people found this review helpful

Ricardina

SUTTON, United Kingdom

14/08/12

Overall

"it all makes sense now!"

I am not English my Mother tongue is Portuguese. I apologise for any grammar mistakes when I try to write my review about this audio book.
I have always had a lot of prejudice against self help books and I don't even know if this book falls in this category. The truth is I have listen to it four times already and it all makes sense! I wouldn't say it changed my life but I honestly feel it is freeing me to be and feel true to myself and to finally feel my way of looking at life was not strange or unusual. Everything the author tells us makes perfect sense! I feel lighter and happier after "swallowing the happy pill"! I can only say thank you to the author. Thank you Craig!

3 of 4 people found this review helpful

Barry

Bridlington, United Kingdom

29/12/12

Overall

"God-bothering psychobabble ;-("

I felt like I was being preached to listening to this excuse for an audiobook, preached to by a powerful salesman who obviously believes in the stuff he spouts out. He obviously loves the sound of his own voice too and sounds like a local raadio station DJ who threw together some thoughts and concocted some religious psychobabble to earn himself some cash and a few followers to his would-be cult. Not for me. Refund requested and will be ignoring any more utterings from this author. If I want religion (I don't) I'll go to church (I won't!)

3 of 5 people found this review helpful

william

19/08/16

Overall

Performance

Story

"Finally a British happiness audio book !!!"

Don't get me wrong happiness can come from any country it's universal but if you live in the uk we need extra care ;) it rains a lot.

Thanks Craig well written and narrated this book is a great follow up to books like control alcohol where you have the ability to change your life and then your outlook to keep you up.

Keep them coming Craig!!!

0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Chris Ecclestone

Essex

15/08/16

Overall

Performance

Story

"Brilliant"

Craig is fantastic! Really helped change my life and turned it around. He has a cool voice that just works!

0 of 0 people found this review helpful

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